2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 260 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass (203 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Roadster | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2680 mm |
